New COVID-Related Text Scam

If there is ever an opportunity for scammers to find a way to take your personal information, they are on it! With individuals still struggling financially from COVID-related layoffs and business closures, the scammers have found a way to prey on that financial need.

The newest scam is via a text message. This message states: “You have received a direct deposit of $1,200 from COVID-19 TREAS Fund. Further action is required to accept this payment into your account. Continue to accept this payment…” The text includes a link to a fake phishing web address.

The fake phishing URL takes you to a fraudulent website that impersonates the IRS.gov Get My Payment website. Once you visit this website and enter your personal information, the scammers will have it.

Please remember that the IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers via email, text messages, or social media channels. They do not demand immediate payment of taxes nor do they threaten to involve the local police, immigration officers, or any other law-enforcement officials to collect the tax.

‍

Here is what the IRS will do:

– If an agent visits you, they will also provide two forms of official credentials. You have a right to see their credentials and make any necessary calls to verify their credentials.

– IRS collection employees may call or come by your home or business unannounced to collect a tax debt. They will NOT demand immediate payment. The IRS can assign certain cases to an outside collection agency.

– If you are being audited, the IRS agent may contact you via the phone only after they have sent out a notice that you are being audited.

– Criminal investigators may visit you at home or your business unannounced. They will NOT demand immediate payment.

‍

Try to stay vigilant.

If it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

The following is a link for all the Tax Scams/Consumer Alerts happening.

https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-scams-consumer-alerts

‍